MCAT Retakes Guide: Timing, Prep Strategies & How Admissions View Them

If you’re applying to medical school in 2025, your MCAT score remains one of the most important pieces of your application. Despite the holistic review process emphasized by medical schools, a weak MCAT score can significantly reduce your chances—no matter how impressive your GPA, clinical experience, or extracurriculars.

If you’re thinking about a retake, you’re not alone. In this guide, we’ll break down when and why you should consider retaking the MCAT, how scores are viewed, and what the data says about retesting success. We'll also help you evaluate whether it’s the right move for your application.

For students seeking additional experience to strengthen their application, Go Elective offers immersive pre-med shadowing internships in Kenya and Tanzania—learn more about our global health programs.

How Many Times Can You Take the MCAT?

According to the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), students are allowed:

Up to 3 MCAT attempts per calendar year
4 attempts over a 2-year period
7 total lifetime attempts

This count includes all attempts—even voided exams and no-shows. Use your attempts wisely, especially if you’re applying to competitive programs.

How Admissions Committees View Multiple MCAT Scores

Medical schools will see all of your MCAT scores via your AMCAS application. How they weigh those scores varies:

Some schools use only your highest overall score
Others average all attempts
Some "superscore" by using your highest section scores from different tests
Many give more weight to your most recent score

Since schools rarely publish their policies, it’s best to contact the admissions office directly for clarification.

Will Retaking the MCAT Hurt My Application?

Not necessarily. Retaking the MCAT won’t automatically raise red flags. In fact, a significant improvement can strengthen your candidacy and show resilience.

However, multiple retakes with no improvement—or worse, a lower score—can raise questions about your preparation. That’s why it’s crucial to study effectively and retake only when you’re truly ready.

What Are the Chances Your Score Will Improve?

The AAMC’s data shows that most students who retake the MCAT see some improvement—particularly those who initially scored under 517. These students gained a median of 3 to 4 points.

Students scoring 518+ saw little to no improvement
Retaking after scoring in the top percentile may not be worth it

Risks of Retaking the MCAT You Shouldn’t Ignore

Before registering for another test date, consider these potential downsides:

No guarantee of improvement: The MCAT is designed to be consistent. Your score could stay the same or even decrease.
All scores are visible: Schools will see every attempt, and a lower retake may hurt your application.
Opportunity costs: Preparing for a second MCAT might take away time from clinical experience, research, or programs like Go Elective’s pre-med shadowing internships.
Application cycle timing: Studying during your primary or secondary application season can impact your essays and interviews.

When Retaking the MCAT Makes Sense

You may want to consider a retake if:

Your score is well below the average for your target schools (check stats on MSAR or AAMC resources).
You had highly imbalanced section scores (e.g., a 125 in one section and 129+ in others).
You didn’t study thoroughly or felt unprepared.
You were ill, anxious, or distracted during your exam.
Your AAMC practice test scores were significantly higher than your actual score.
You know exactly what went wrong and how to fix it.

When You Shouldn’t Retake the MCAT

In contrast, it’s best to avoid a retake if:

You scored 518 or higher, especially with a strong GPA and solid clinical hours.
Your score is in line with your chosen schools’ averages.
Your official score matches your practice test performance.
You’re unable to dedicate focused time to MCAT prep due to work, school, or application deadlines.
You’re unsure how to approach the test differently this time.

Balancing the MCAT With Other Parts of Your Application

Remember that the MCAT is only one part of your application. If you're already spending hours prepping, consider how that time might be better used for impactful experiences like:

Gaining clinical exposure through Go Elective’s shadowing internships in East Africa
Volunteering, research, or community service
Perfecting your personal statement and secondary essays

These elements add depth to your application and may outweigh a modest MCAT score increase.

Final Thoughts: Is a Retake Right for You?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Your decision should be based on your goals, your current application profile, and your ability to improve. If you’re committed to better preparation and have the time to study, retaking the MCAT may be a smart move.

But don’t lose sight of your broader journey. Medical schools seek well-rounded candidates with clinical insight, passion, and resilience. Participating in programs like Go Elective’s international internships can help you build a compelling narrative beyond your test scores.

If you’re unsure about your application strategy or whether a retake is the right choice, consider seeking mentorship. At Go Elective, we don’t just offer hands-on medical experience—we help you build a path to medical school with purpose. Learn more at goelective.com.